Things To Do
in Vincennes
Vincennes is a charming commune located in the eastern suburbs of Paris, France. It is famous for its majestic Château de Vincennes, a former royal residence and fortress dating back to the 14th century. The town boasts a wonderful mix of historical architecture, leafy parks, and trendy boutiques.
Vincennes also offers easy access to the bustling city life of Paris while providing a peaceful and residential atmosphere.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Château de Vincennes, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the world. Enjoy a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history.
After lunch, take a stroll through the Parc du Château de Vincennes, where you can admire the beautiful greenery and the lake. Stop by the nearby Saint-Louis Church to appreciate its architecture.
In the evening, savor a traditional French dinner at a local bistro. End your day with a walk along the picturesque streets of Vincennes.
Visit the Maison des Arts et Métiers, a cultural center showcasing local art exhibitions. Participate in a morning workshop to create your own piece.
Head to the town's main square for lunch at a café and enjoy people-watching. Explore local artisan shops for unique souvenirs.
Catch a live performance at the Théâtre des Artisans. Enjoy a post-show drink at a cozy bar nearby.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage, including the Château de Vincennes.
- Close proximity to Paris, making it convenient for commuting.
- Well-maintained parks and green spaces, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Family-friendly environment with good schools and amenities.
- Vibrant community with various cultural and recreational activities.
- Higher cost of living compared to other suburbs.
- Potential traffic congestion due to its location near Paris.
- Limited nightlife options compared to central Paris.
- Possible language barrier for non-French speakers.
- Smaller size may feel limiting for those used to larger cities.
Best Activities in Vincennes
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful Bois de Vincennes, a large public park that offers walking paths, scenic lakes, a zoo, botanical gardens, and various recreational activities.
Visit the historic Chateau de Vincennes, a medieval royal fortress with a surrounding moat, offering a fascinating glimpse into the area's rich history and architectural heritage.
Enjoy cycling through the scenic trails and pathways in and around Vincennes, offering a great way to explore the natural beauty and charming surroundings of the area.
Experience the joy of boating on Lac Daumesnil, a picturesque lake within Bois de Vincennes, where you can rent rowboats or pedalos for a relaxing time on the water.
Tours
Uncover the best of Vincennes with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Vincennes
Visit one of these nice places.
The chateau offers a stunning panoramic view of Vincennes and the surrounding area, making it a great spot for photos.
This beautiful botanical park in Vincennes provides numerous picturesque spots for taking photos, especially during the blooming season.
As one of the largest public parks in Paris, the Bois de Vincennes offers various scenic viewpoints and natural landscapes perfect for photography.
Food in Vincennes
Vincennes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic French dish, Coq au Vin features chicken braised with wine, lardons, mushrooms, and garlic. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that can be savored at Le Bois de Vincennes Restaurant.
Must-Try!
This Provençal dish is a savory tart topped with caramelized onions, black olives, and anchovies. Sample authentic Pissaladière at La Cave des Gourmets for a true taste of Vincennes.
Indulge in the creamy and flavorful Brie de Meaux, a renowned cheese variety produced in the nearby region. Discover this delectable cheese at Fromagerie Laurent Dubois.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Vincennes better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling Vincennes Market is a haven for foodies, offering an array of fresh produce, cheese, meats, and artisanal products. Don't miss the opportunity to savor delectable street foods including crêpes, galettes, and freshly baked pastries from the various vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Vincennes, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, and it is polite to address others using their titles (Monsieur, Madame) until invited to use first names.
When dining in Vincennes, it is considered polite to keep your hands visible on the table, and to wait for the host to begin eating before you start. It's also customary to leave a small amount of food on your plate to indicate that you are satisfied.
Punctuality is important in Vincennes, so it is respectful to arrive on time for social and business appointments. However, being fashionably late by a few minutes is generally acceptable for social events.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Vincennes with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Vincennes
Ensure a smooth experience
In Vincennes, France, tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated in restaurants, cafes, and bars. A service charge is usually included in the bill, but it's common to round up the total or leave a small additional amount as a gesture of appreciation for good service.
In Vincennes, France, cash is widely accepted, but major credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. Contactless payment methods are increasingly popular. It's important to carry some cash, especially in smaller establishments or street markets, as they may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Vincennes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Vincennes, France. The weather is mild and there are beautiful blossoms in the park. Expect moderate crowds.
Another great time to visit Vincennes, France. Warm weather is ideal for outdoor activities and the park is lush and green. Expect larger crowds due to peak tourist season.
The weather is still pleasant, and the autumn foliage in the park is stunning. Expect fewer crowds compared to summer.
The off-peak season. Weather is cold, but it's a great time to experience the festive atmosphere during the holiday season. Expect smaller crowds and a different kind of charm in Vincennes.
Vincennes at Night
Hiking in Vincennes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large public park with numerous trails, it offers beautiful walks, lakes, and a diverse range of flora and fauna, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
A stunning park with rugged cliffs, waterfalls, and scenic pathways, it's an excellent spot for hiking and enjoying panoramic views of Paris.
Adjacent to the Forêt de Vincennes, this wooded area features several marked trails, perfect for exploring nature and enjoying a peaceful hike.
A large urban park that combines various green spaces, cultural venues, and pathways, suitable for casual hiking and family outings.
A hiking trail that runs through vineyards and rolling hills near Vincennes, providing a scenic outdoor experience with opportunities for wine tasting.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Vincennes through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Vincennes by plane.
The largest international airport in France, located approximately 25 km northeast of Vincennes.
Located about 13 km south of Vincennes, Orly serves as a major international airport in the Paris region.
Situated approximately 70 km north of Vincennes, this airport primarily serves low-cost carriers.
Located about 160 km east of Vincennes, this is a smaller international airport, often used for charter flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly French residents with European ancestry.
Residents with roots from North African countries, including Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia.
People of Sub-Saharan African descent, including those from countries like Mali and Senegal.
Residents of Asian heritage, including individuals from countries like Vietnam and China.
Individuals with Middle Eastern backgrounds, including those from Lebanon and Turkey.
Includes a variety of other smaller demographic groups and communities.
The Soul of Vincennes
Discover the essence of Vincennes through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Vincennes, with many local clubs and a strong community engagement in both youth and adult leagues.
Tennis has a significant following in Vincennes, supported by several local tennis clubs and public courts, attracting players of all ages.
Basketball is a widely played sport in Vincennes, with local teams and facilities promoting both recreational and competitive play.
Running and track and field activities are popular, particularly in the Bois de Vincennes, where residents enjoy jogging, walking, and other athletic pursuits.
Cycling is a favored pastime in Vincennes, with numerous bike paths and scenic routes through the city and surrounding parks.
Handball enjoys popularity in Vincennes, with local clubs contributing to its development in schools and communities.
Swimming is popular, particularly in local leisure centers which offer swimming courses and competitions for different age groups.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Vincennes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vincennes has embraced the rise in vegetarian and vegan dining, with several cafes and restaurants offering dedicated menus or versatile options to cater to these dietary preferences. Look out for innovative plant-based dishes at Le Coq Noir and La Guinguette des Arts.
Visitors with gluten restrictions will find numerous establishments sensitive to their needs. Explore gluten-free pastries, bread, and dishes at Pâtisserie Lenôtre and Le Truly.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Vincennes with these cultural adventures.
